microbiology chapter 14 test bank Related

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Which of the following best describes the Gram stain process?

  • A. It differentiates bacteria based on their flagella
  • B. It identifies bacteria based on their shape
  • C. It differentiates bacteria based on their cell wall structure
  • D. It is used to determine bacterial motility
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The Gram stain process involves staining bacterial cells with crystal violet and iodine, followed by decolorization and counterstaining. The primary differentiation is based on the cell wall structure, distinguishing bacteria into Gram-positive (retain purple color) and Gram-negative (lose purple color). This classification is crucial in microbiology for treatment decisions as it correlates with different antibiotic susceptibilities. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the Gram stain process does not primarily focus on flagella, shape, or motility of bacteria.